Sunday 5th March, 2017 - Leinster League Division 2A

Newbridge 19 Carlow 29

This was a game where the supporters on both sides were left wondering what was going to happen next. Newbridge, playing their best rugby all season were 19 points to nil up after 48 minutes and yet were to come out on the losing side. Carlow won by five tries with two converted to Newbridge’s 4 penalties and a converted try.

From the start Newbridge forwards were on top in the lineout and in the loose and went 9 points ahead with penalties in the 3rd, 20th minute and 24th minute from the boot of fullback Donal Cashman. The half time score was 9 points to nil. After the Carlow wing forward was yellow carded Newbridge went even further ahead following a good run down the line from winger Liam McGovern whose pass to Cashman saw him over under the posts. Cashman converted. A further penalty from Liam McGovern in the 44th minute saw Newbridge well in control at 19 points to nil.

The Carlow pack came to terms with the lineout and had the push in the scrums. Their first converted try came in the 48th minute. The gold rush for Carlow came with tries in the 53rd minute, the 66th minute the 70th minute and the 75th minute with the last one being converted. Newbridge now must play Portarlington away next Sunday at 3.00pm in what will be the critical match for both teams. Best for Newbridge were Keith Moran in the second row while Denis Clarke in the centre tackled all that was thrown at him.

are currently 8th in Division 2B (one league below Newbridge 1st XV) but

have registered 2 league wins so far this season. The match in Athboy kicks

off at 3.00pm (note the later time as we move into February).

Sunday 4th December, 2016 - Leinster League Division 2A

On Sunday 4th December in Leinster League Division 2A Newbridge 1st XV suffered the heartache of a narrow one point loss to Railway Union. Played in Rosetown the home side scored a last minute try but the missed conversion left the final score Newbridge 11 pts Railway Union 12. However the loosing bonus point has moved Newbridge off the bottom of the league. Newbridge 2nd XV also lost to Railway Union by 17 pts to 27

Newbridge 11 Railway Union 12

This was a game dominated for long periods by Newbridge but in the end their great endeavour particularly in the pack left them wondering about the result. Newbridge had 2 penalties and an unconverted try to Railway Unions 2 tries of which one was converted. The Newbridge try came near the posts in the last minute of the match, after some terrific forwards pressure, only for the conversion to be missed and for them to lose the critical Leinster League points from a win.

From the off it was mainly pressure from Newbridge that brought about the first penalty in the 7th minute which was converted in front of the posts by fullback Conor Dolan. Newbridge seemed to be unable to turn this possession into any penetrative runs. Dave Hogan on the wing was replaced through injury by Patrick Kavanagh after 25 minutes. During this period of home team dominance Railway Union got two short periods in the Newbridge 22 metre area and on both occasion got over for a try in the 28th and 39th minutes. Dolan added a second penalty for Newbridge on 31 minutes to leave the halftime score 6 points to 12 in the visitor's favour.

The second half was a dogged affair with both sides getting their opportunities but where tackling was at a premium. Pat Commane at prop was replaced by Aidan Healy after 50 minutes. On 57 minutes Dolan was wide with a penalty from 30 metres. As the game wore on it was the fitter Newbridge side who were gaining the upper hand. A mammoth effort from the pack got them near the line on a few occasions near the end of the game. The scrum was dominated throughout the match by the Newbridge forwards. In the 39th minute prop Aidan Healy was on hand to get the touchdown just wide of the posts. The critical kick to win the game was unfortunately missed.

Best for Newbridge were Niall Duggan at hooker, Ronan Mangan and Keith Moran in the lineout while Billy Delaney in the backs played well. Newbridge 2nd XV lost to Railway Union by 17 pts to 27 in their Leinster Seconds League Div 2A match. Newbridge 1st & 2nd XVs meet Edenderry away in the Leinster League next Sunday 11th December. 2nd XV kick off at 12.30pm and the 1st XV at 2.00pm.

Tuesday 14th March, 2017 - Leinster League Division 2A

Newbridge 8 Portarlington 8

This final Leinster League match was vital to both sides. Played under lights in Rosetown on Tuesday 14th March, it was the Portarlington forwards who displayed more drive and conviction throughout while Newbridge gave of their best. Scoring a penalty and a try each it was total commitment to the very end.

Portarlington started well and scored a penalty from 30 yards out in front of the posts in the 5th minute. Their rucking and ball retention saw them come close to scoring a try in this phase. Newbridge got into the game and fullback Donal Cashman scored a penalty from 30 yards out in the 12th minute. Portarlington had a glaring miss from in front of the posts on the 22 metre line in the 26th minute while Cashman was wide with a long-range penalty in the 32nd minute. Following a penetrative run from the Portarlington centre he got over in the corner right on half time to leave the score at the bear Newbridge 3 points Portarlington 8.

A further penalty miss from Portarlington came in the 42nd minute before Newbridge prop Aidan Healy was sin binned in the 47th minute. Newbridge withstood the 10 minutes well conceding no points. Portarlington had their wing forward sin binned in the 60th minute. It was now all Newbridge pressure and a beautiful cross field kick by outhalf Ronan Skehan saw winger David Hogan latch on to the ball to score a fine try. Unfortunately Donal Cashman failed with the conversion. Portarlington had most of the pressure in the final 5 minutes to see them finish with the draw and, importantly for them, above Newbridge on League points. Best for Newbridge were Niall O’Connor at wing forward while Denis Clarke and David Hogan were the best of the backs. Newbridge will finish 7th and Portarlington 6th in Division 2A of the Leinster League. Newbridge will now have to play off against the second team from Division 2B to avoid the drop to 2B.

Sunday 22nd January, 2017 - Leinster League – Division 2A

Longford 33 Newbridge 10

On Sunday 22nd January Newbridge travelled to new Leinster League leaders Longford but they proved much too good for a Newbridge side depleted by injuries. Longford were the more clinical team throughout and played good open rugby to clinch the league points and a bonus point. Longford scored 4 tries (2 converted), and 3 penalties to Newbridge’s converted try and a penalty.

Longford opened the scoring after only 3 minutes with a good try. It was followed in the 19th minute with an easy penalty. Longford putting much pressure on the Newbridge side scored another try in the 21st minute. Liam McGovern got a penalty in the 39th minute to leave it at 16 points to 3 at the break.

An injury to Newbridge No.8 Mark Doyle caused further problems for the Newbridge pack. He was replaced by Chris Carroll. Gary Maguire on the wing was also injured and was replaced by Shane Deasy. After the restart Longford got off the mark in the 44th minute with a well taken try followed by another 5 minutes later. Both were converted. In the 58th minute Longford scored a further penalty. Newbridge did finish strongly with a try from second row Rory McCann which was converted by Liam McGovern. Best for Newbridge were Oisin Howell and Keith Moran in the forwards while Mark Delaney at scrum half did well under a lot of pressure.

Sunday 6th November, 2016 - Leinster League Division 2A

Newbridge 12 pts Longford 29 pts

A strong cross field cold northerly wind made this a difficult Leinster League match for both sets of players. Longford, who are unbeaten in their first four League matches, had the upper hand, in particular, in the back row and in the slick handling of their backs.

After 7 minutes they got their first try following a kick ahead by Newbridge when their winger ran from his own half to score a converted try near the posts. The same winger missed two kickable penalties in the 17th and 26th minutes. Longford got over for another converted try on 31 minutes. They were over again in the corner on 38th minutes. In their first real attack Newbridge carried the ball at the opposition pack for second row Oisin Howell to get the touch down leaving the half time score at 5pts to 19pts.

In the second half Newbridge upped their game but were rocked back in the 64th minute with an unconverted Longford try. Wing forward Niall O’Connor got over in the 69th minute for a well taken converted try. In the final minutes of the game Longford ran out easy winners with a converted try. Best for Newbridge were Oisin Howell at number five and captain Cormac Nugent in the forwards while Mark Delaney at scrum half and centre Denis O’Callaghan worked hard. Newbridge are away to Carlow next Sunday in the Leinster Junior League at 2.30pm.

Saturday 28th August, 2016 - Firsts off to a Winning Start

Newbridge 1sts won their first pre-season game away to Galwegians J1s today, Saturday August 28th. The lads registered a convincing victory with the final score being 34-12. The scores from Donal Cashman (2) , Cormac Nugent, Denis O'Callaghan, Kevin Miller and Alan O'Connor.

Friday 16th September, 2016 - ​1st XV Win Friendly Against Boyne

In last Friday's friendly in Rosetown, by scoring three tries, Newbridge defeated Boyne J1's by 15 points to 3. Boyne took an early 3 point lead from a penalty but a first half unconverted try from Donal Cashman and two further second half unconverted tries from Robert Browner and Kevin Miller saw the home side score a useful win. Newbridge have a challenging opening to this season's Leinster League Division 2A with an away fixture against last season's divisional runners up, Railway Union. Kick off on Sunday 25th September in Railway Union is at 3pm.

Saturday 14th January, 2017 - Newbridge Retain Jon Conlan Trophy

By defeating Cill Dara on Saturday 14th January Newbridge retained

the Jon Conlan Memorial Trophy. The trophy is played for annually

between the two clubs in memory of former player and friend to many

in both clubs, Jon Conlan. Cian Conlan is pictured presenting the

trophy to Newbridge captain Ronan Mangan.

Saturday 22nd January, 2017 - Leinster Seconds League Division 2A

Newbridge 27 Cill Dara 5

Earlier on Saturday evening in Rosetown Newbridge 2nd XV score a great win. This game was dominated by a revitalised Newbridge second fifteen who had the upper hand throughout. Winger Alan Smith got the opening try which was converted by full back Liam McGovern. McGovern was again on hand to convert a penalty and again in the 24th minute, after outhalf Fergal Doyle scored a good try, McGovern converted. Cill Dara got their only score, a try, in the 27th minute. McGovern closed the scores for the half with a penalty in the 30th minute to leave it at 20 points to 5.

In the second half Colin Dunning in the centre scored a good try which McGovern converted. Best for Newbridge were Alan O’Connor, Richard Berney and Stuart Kehoe in the pack while Liam McGovern, Daniel Hill and Fergal Doyle all did well in the backs.

Sunday 6th November, 2016 - Leinster Seconds League Division 2A

Newbridge 20 Longford 37

Newbridge took an early lead after 3 minutes with a penalty from Fergal Doyle. However, it was Longford who converted a penalty in the 12th minute followed by another in the 20th minute. Longford got over for two converted tries in the 27th and 30th minutes before Dave Mullins narrowed the gap for Newbridge on 35 minutes. A penalty for outhalf Fergal Doyle in the 40th minute left it at 13 points to 20 at half time. In the second half Newbridge drew level with another try from Dave Mullins converted by Doyle. However it was Longford who finished the stronger with three tries in the 52nd, 67th and 73 minutes. Best for Newbridge were Alan O’Connor, Fergal Doyle and Dave Mullins. Newbridge are away to Carlow next Sunday at 1pm.

Sunday 13th November, 2016 - Leinster League Division 2A

Co Carlow 24 pts Newbridge 15 pts

Played in ideal conditions, on a good pitch, the better coordinated side, Co Carlow. saw it through to win with 4 tries (2 converted) to Newbridge’s 2 tries (one converted) and a penalty. Carlow started the more positive and with fast running from their two centres they made good headway. After 17 minutes they scored a try which was converted. Newbridge got onto the scoreboard in the 21st minute with a penalty from fullback Conor Dolan from 30 metres out. Newbridge now had Carlow under pressure But, after a good break from Newbridge outhalf Ronan Skehan, Carlow managed to turn the ball over just outside their 22 and, following what could best be described as a foot rush, the home side scored their second try at the other end in the 32nd minute. Carlow added a third try after their jinking centre got a touchdown in the 38th minute leaving the half time score at 17 points to 3.

In the first half Newbridge’s forwards had suffered a number of injuries and they were under pressure in the scrum. Changes were needed so a number of substitutions were made. However, despite an improved performance from the visitors in the second period, it wasn’t enough to get them back on terms with Carlow. A try in the corner from Newbridge’s robust and dogged winger Robert Browner made it 17 points to 8. Carlow got their bonus point try in the 71st minute which was converted. Browner was again on hand in the 73rd minute to score in the corner again. This try was converted by Skehan to leave the final score Co Crlow 24 pts Newbridge 15 pts

Newbridge are improving with each game but will shortly have to get into the winning enclosure if they are to survive in this division of the Leinster League. Best for Newbridge were Outhalf Ronan Skehan and Robert Browner on the wing while in the pack Ronan Mangan and Niall Duggan gave it their all. Newbridge are at home to Portarlington on Friday 25th November in the Leinster League with kick off at 8.00pm.

Saturday 22nd April, 2017 - Newbridge Players Help Area to Win

Well done to Newbridge RFC players David Hogan, Wesley uffe and

Mark Delaney who helped the North Midlands Area defeat Leinster juniors in a high scoring friendly played in perfect rugby conditions at Rosetown on Saturday 22nd April. This is the first of two matches involving the Leinster Juniors that Newbridge RFC will host in Rosetown on consecutive Saturdays this April. The final score was NMLBIRFU 43 pts Leinster Juniors 34 and the three Newbridge representatives all played a big part in the victory.

** Congratulations to Dave Hogan,​

Wesley Cuffe & Mark Delaney **

Senior News

Wednesday 12th April, 2017 - Pulsating 2nd XV Match in Rosetown

​Newbridge 2nd XV 46 Co Carlow 2nd XV 59

​On Wednesday 12th April Newbridge 2nd XV played their postponed Leinster Seconds League (J2) Division 2A match under lights in Rosetown against champions-elect Co Carlow. The match had been postponed during March due to a waterlogged pitch. In a great pulsating game of rugby, Co Carlow finally won by 59 pts to 46. Congratulations to Co Carlow who proved to be very worthy champions. However Newbridge played a significant role in making this an entertaining evening's rugby by playing some of their best running rugby this season. There was a senior debut for Newbridge's Brendan Commane who joined his older brother Paddy on the field of play. Many Newbridge players performed very well including Mark Doyle, Alan Smith, Paidi Davies, Gary McGuire and Stephen Rigney. Special thanks to Killian O'Hagan, Dave O'Sullivan and team captain Alan O'Connor for all their work with the 2nd XV during the past season. There are many positives to take into next season.

WELL DONE and THANK YOU !!

Friday 25th November, 2016 - Leinster League Division 2A

Newbridge 21 Portarlington 14

This was a tightly contested match with both sides vying for the Leinster League points. Newbridge, however, were the more enterprising and committed side throughout and had to come from behind to secure the win. Played on Friday night, 25th November, under lights in Rosetown, the conditions were good throughout.

In the first quarter Portarlington capitalised on Newbridge’s weak tackling and, after 19 minutes, scored a converted try near the posts.Newbridge full back Conor Dolan was wide on 22 minutes with a 30 yard penalty. However, he made no mistake 3 minutes later from in front of the posts. Newbridge now began to get the edge, in particular their scrum had a huge driving advantage over Portarlington. The Portarlington scrum half was yellow carded in the 28th minute before Dolan was again on hand to put over the resulting penalty. As Newbridge opened out the game it was second row Rory McCann charged through the visitor’s defence to link up with wing forward Niall O’Connor who scored the touchdown. Dolan added a further penalty from 30 yards out in the 34th minute to leave it at 14 points to 7 at the break in favour of the Rosetown side.

In the second half Portarlington came more into the game. However, it was the Newbridge scrum that paid dividends. From a series of good mauls Newbridge were awarded a 5 metre scrum which they drove over the line for the referee to award a penalty try which Dolan converted. Aidan Healy, Keith Moran and Lar Jones came on for Newbridge to freshen up the home team. However, it was Portarlington who caused the drama as they scored a converted try in the 72nd minute to set up a tense finish. Newbridge were not to be denied can held on to take their first league victory of the season.

Outstanding for Newbridge was the No 8 Ronan Mangan who had the match of his life. Aidan Healy added great solidity to the scrum as did Rory McCann. Ronan Skehan at outhalf and Conor Dolan at fullback were prominent. The league has reached the halfway mark and next Sunday 4th December the reverse fixtures start and first up for Newbridge is Railway Union. The 1st XV match in Rosetown will kick off at the earlier time of 2.00pm.

Sunday 11th December, 2016 - Leinster League – Division 2A

On Sunday 11th December in Leinster League Division 2A Newbridge 1st XV scored a hard fought away win against Edenderry! The match finished 14pts to 10 with Newbridge outscoring the home side by 2 tries to 1. The club couldn't be prouder of our senior panel as they have battled back from a very challenging first half of the league campaign.

​Edenderry 10 Newbridge 14

This was a game dominated by Newbridge particularly in the forwards. Their exertion of pressure in the scrums and their high fielding in the lineouts was key to the match and provided the vital edge for them in the end. Newbridge scored two converted tries to Edenderry’s penalty and a converted try. It was a block down of the Edenderry outhalf’s kick in a key phase of the match, that was gathered and touched down under the posts, that won the game for Newbridge.

From the kick-off, it was pressure from the Newbridge pack that drove

Edenderry team backwards. The pack was dominant in the scrums and

were very driven in the mauls. It was from such a maul that Newbridge

drove Edenderry over their own line for second row Oisin Howell to get

the touchdown in the 8th minute. Outhalf Conor Dolan converted the kick

from way out near the side-line. Robert Browner on the wing was injured

and replaced by Liam McGovern. As the half wore on Edenderry pack

got more into the game and their half backs became dominant with their

kicking. Edenderry scored a penalty from in front of the posts in the 39th

minute. They missed a further kick in the 40th minute but were ahead in

the 4th minute of injury time after they pounced on a poor kick from

scrumhalf Mark Delaney. At the half time Edenderry lead by 10 points to

seven.

A late tackle in the 41st minute by Kieran Dignam saw a determined Newbridge side reduced to 14 men for the next 10 minutes. However, they battled well and gave no score away. Edenderry were superior in the loose mauls and rucks and threatened the Newbridge line on a few occasions. With Newbridge’s superior scrum and lineout they persisted to run every ball when kicks beyond the Edenderry defence seemed right on these occasions. Aidan Healy came on as a replacement prop. However, in the 67th minute Denis O’Callaghan managed to blocked down a kick from the Edenderry outhalf. O’Callaghan quickly collected the ball and got over under the posts for the Newbridge try. Dolan converted. Donal Cashman was introduced as a substitute fullback at this stage. Dolan was wide with a long-range penalty kick in the 72nd minute. In the final minutes the Offaly men threw everything at Newbridge who were up to the mark and were not going to be denied the league points.

Best for Newbridge were Ronan Mangan and Keith Moran in the lineout while Rory McCann, Richard Snell and Niall Duggan in the pack were dominant. Denis O’Callaghan at fullback had a good game. Newbridge remain seventh in Division 2A but have closed the gap to the teams ahead. Newbridge’s next Leinster League match is against bottom side Roscrea in Rosetown on Sunday 8th January 2017 with a 2.30 pm kick off

Saturday 22nd October, 2016 - 1sts & 2nds Lose Away to Cill Dara

​​​​Last Saturday evening, 22nd October, both of Newbridge's senior sides had to give best to our near neighbours, Cill Dara, in their latest Leinster League matches. Newbridge 1st XV lost by 25 points to 14 and remain bottom of Division 2A still without a win. Our 2nd XV lost by 23 points to 3 but by virtue of their early season away draw against Railway Union have 3 league points and lie seventh. There is now a two week gap before the next league matches against Longford which will be played at home in Rosetown on Sunday 6th November.

Sunday 5th February, 2017 - 2nd XV Lose in Cup at Athboy

On Sunday 5th February Newbridge 2nd XV commence their Leinster Provincial Towns Seconds (J2) Cup with an away trip to play Athboy 1st XV. The final score was Athboy 13 pts Newbridge 5. This was not a very inspiring match and in many ways a bit of a lottery to establish a winner. After Athboy scored an early penalty Newbridge hit back with an unconverted intercept try by Dave Mullins, who had a 60 metre run in. Athboy went ahead before half time with a second penalty to lead 6 pts to 5 at the break. The next and decisive score didn't come until the 70 minute mark with the home side getting a converted try to leave the final score Athboy 13 Newbridge 5. Yet another disappointing result for Newbridge.

Wednesday 29th March, 2017 - 2nd XV Lose in Plate after Extra Time

Cill Dara 2nd XV 36 Newbridge 2nd XV 22

On Wednesday evening, 29th March, Newbridge 2nd XV came so close to winning their first round Leinster Provincial Plate match away to Cill Dara. After 75 minutes under lights, having put in a great performance, Newbridge lead by 19pts to 14, but, after a period of sustained pressure by the home side, a last minute Cill Dara try took the match into extra time. Cill Dara never looked back scoring two more converted tries to a single penalty by Newbridge to leave the final score Cill Dara 36 pts Newbridge 22. ​So close but so far! Well done to all involved as Newbridge continue the task of re-developing a competitive 2nd XV.

Sunday 16th October, 2016 - Leinster Seconds League Div 2A

Roscrea 7 pts Newbridge 0 pts

Played on a windswept pitch both teams were well matched. Newbridge playing with the wind had two long range penalties from the half way line which went wide. Following the half time score of nil all it was Roscrea who got the winner in the 56th minute near the posts which was converted. Best for Newbridge were Terry Donnelly and Alan O’Connor while Denis Clarke was very solid in the backs. Newbridge are away in the league to Cill Dara next Saturday kicking off at 5.30pm.

Firday 5th August, 2016 - ​​​TAG RUGBY Finals

Last week for our Mixed SummerTag Rugby competition!

The FINALS of the Newbridge RFC Summer Tag Competition will be played this Friday, 5th August, in Rosetown starting at 7.15pm. The four matches will be followed by a BBQ, Music and Awards. If you are not playing why not come out and enjoy the craic !!

Played under lights in Rosetown on Saturday 18th February, this was a match full of open rugby as both sides attempted to run the ball at every opportunity. Both sides were very determined but it was Newbridge who excelled with their fast pace, superior lineout and scrummaging ability. Newbridge won by five tries, two of which were converted, to Midland Warriors single penalty.

Midland Warriors were on top in the scrums early on and displayed their

good coaching. They were rewarded in the 22nd minute with a penalty

from close in to the posts. Their lead, however, was short lived as No8

Mark Doyle charged over for a try in the 25th minute which was converted

by winger Donal Cashman. In the 38th minute hooker Niall Duggan

scrambled over for a try to leave the half time score at 12 points to 3.

Newbridge took the second half by the scruff of the neck as winger Dave

Mullins showed his pace in the 43rd minute to score a try which Liam

McGovern converted. Midland Warriors missed two kickable penalties in

the 47th and 51st minutes. It took until the 78th minute for the home side

to add further to their score when centre Billy Delaney made a superb run

to set up winger Dave Hogan for the score of the game. This was quickly

followed in the 80th minute when Dave Mullins latched onto a precise kick from Donal Cashman to score his second try in the corner.

Best for Newbridge were Aidan Healy at prop, who had his opposite number in trouble throughout, wing forward Wesley Cuffe in the lineout, while Keith Moran was dominant in the loose play. In the backs, Mark Delaney at scrum half had a solid game, as did Billy Delaney at centre, while Dave Hogan on the wing was in flying form.

Sunday 5th March, 2017 - Newbridge Lose in Leinster League

​On Sunday 5th March, after days of continuous rain, in the only surviving Leinster League Division 2A match, Newbridge 1st XV lost at Rosetown to Co Carlow in their penultimate league game. Like many across Leinster the 2nd XV game had earlier been cancelled. Newbridge, playing their best rugby all season were 19 points to nil up after 48 minutes and yet were to come out on the losing side. Co Carlow won by five tries with two converted to Newbridge’s 4 penalties and a converted try. The final score was Newbrisge 19 Co Carlow 29.

Co Carlow move to second in the league equal on points with Longford and Newbridge remain 6th two points ahead of final opponents Portarlington. However both Newbridge and Co Carlow have played one game more. Newbridge must win away to Portarlington to avoid possible relegation. The Leinster Branch have rescheduled the three postponed 1st XV games from Sunday 5th March to next Sunday 12th March with the final round of games moving back a week. However Portarlington have requested a mid-week date for the final crucial league match with Newbridge. This match will now be played on Tuesday 14th March in Rosetown kicking off at 8.00pm - note venue change from Portarlington.

Sunday 16th October, 2016 - Leinster League Division 2A

Roscrea 37 pts Newbridge 19 pts

A game played in Roscrea was spoiled by the very strong wind which blew straight down the pitch. Roscrea played with the elements but were on the back foot for the first 10 minutes as Newbridge took the game to them. In the 15th minute they missed a penalty from 35 meters in front of the posts. However, the floodgates then opened as the more alert team took a quick short penalty and scored under the posts in the 19th minute. They were again on hand to get tries in the 24th, 35th,39th, 40th and 42nd minutes to leave the score at 32 points to nil at the break. Many of these scores came from their quick thinking half back pairing and very poor tackling by the Newbridge team.

In the second period Newbridge got the upper hand in the scrums. Their persistence paid off in the 47th minute with a good try from prop Ciaran O’Driscoll. Roscrea became indisciplined which saw three of their player’s sin binned at various periods. The managed to score a try in the corner on the 69th minute. However, Newbridge got a penalty try in the 72nd minute which Liam McGovern converted. Newbridge were again on hand in the 76th minute when scrum half Mark Delaney got over for a try which was again converted by Liam McGovern. Newbridge will regret their first half performance. Best for Newbridge were Pat Commane (prop), Ciaran O’Driscoll (prop), Mark Delaney and Billy Delaney. Newbridge are away to Cill Dara next Saturday evening in the Leinster League with a 7pm kick off.

Sunday 2nd October, 2016 - 1st XV Lose Narrowly at Home in League

​Newbridge 20 - Edenderry 22

​​On Sunday 2nd October at Rosetown, in the second round of matches in Leinster League Division 2A, Newbridge 1st XV, by conceding a very late penalty, lost to current league leaders Edenderry by 20 pts to 22. Newbridge lead at half time by 15 pts to 7. After conceding an early converted try to the visitors, two first half tries from Liam Donovan and Lars Jones helped to give the Rosetown side a useful lead. However Newbridge could only add a single unconverted try after the break, whilst Endenderry crossed for two further tries before converting their late penalty. Edenderry now top the division on 9 points whilst Newbridge are 7th with just the single point. It looks like this division will be extremely tight with little separating the eight sides. Newbridge unfortunately have now lost a potential 4 league points by conceding late penalties in each of their first two matches.

Saturday 14th January, 2017 - Leinster League Division 2A

Newbridge 19 Cill Dara 17

Played in Rosetown on Saturday evening 14th January this was the local derby which had all the attributes of rivalry at its best. The much improved Newbridge, who were second from the bottom of the Leinster League Division 2A, took the honours from the League leaders which ended in a resounding victory. It was Newbridge who proved to be the fitter team as they came from behind with 66 minutes gone to overhaul Cill Dara with 2 well taken tries. Newbridge scored 3 tries with two converted against Cill Dara’s 3 tries with one converted.

There were several injuries to both sides with Newbridge captain Ronan Mangan at No.8 suffering a muscular injury and more seriously Cill Dara’s outhalf Conor Quinlan being stretchered off after a leg injury with only 15 minutes gone. The match was full of incidents and saw 3 players from each side yellow carded during the game.

Newbridge opened the scoring after 13 minutes with a well taken try from man of the match and right winger Dave Hogan. It was converted by Donal Cashman. After Newbridge second row Oisin Howell was yellow carded in the 17th minute Cill Dara scrum half Sean Moore scored a good try in the corner after a lot of forward pressure. In the 25th minute Cill Dara No8 John Joe McIlwaine got over the line for a try which was converted by substitute outhalf Paddy Behan. Newbridge introduced Mark Doyle for Ciaran O’Rourke in the 30th minute while Ciaran Duignan substituted for the injured Ronan Mangan. An attempted quick tap from a penalty saw Newbridge knock on only for Cill Dara winger Ivan Brady to get over in the corner to leave it at 7 points to 17 for Cill Dara at the break.

Stephen Cooke and Gary Maguire came on in the backs for Newbridge as the game switched from end to end as Cill Dara sought the bonus try. However, this was the period that Newbridge stepped up their performance. Mark Delaney at scrum half got over for a try after good pressure close to the Cill Dara line. It was all Newbridge pressure now in the pack as they drove the scrums. After a prolonged period near the Cill Dara goal line second row Rory McCann got over near the posts in the 77th minute to level the match. The Newbridge supporters were on edge as Dave Hogan converted the winning kick.

Best for Cill Dara were Damien Broughall at wing forward while Colm Gorey at No4 did well in the lineout. In the backs veteran Paddy Behan at outhalf had a good game. For Newbridge it was Mark Doyle who took the game to the opposition on several occasions while second row Rory McCann held the pack together. In the backs outhalf Ronan Skehan was solid throughout while Dave Hogan on the right wing had a very powerful and inventive match.

Saturday 10th September, 2016 - No joy in Either Blitz

Both the 1st XV and the U17's had Blitz outings at the weekend. There were some very promising signs for the season ahead from both teams, but unfortunately neither team brought home the honours. The 1st XV were in Cill Dara for the Hosie Cup Blitz while the U17's were narrowly defeated in North Kildare.​

Sunday 26th March, 2017 - Leinster League Division 2A/2B Playoff

Newbridge 17 Wexford Wanderers 13

Newbridge 1st XV, after finishing 7th in Leinster League Division 2A, in Tullow on Sunday 26th March, 2017 played Division 2B Runners Up Wexford Wanderers in a Division 2A/2B Promotion / Relegation Playoff. The winner would play in Division 2A for season 2017/2018. Newbridge were the more competent of the two teams on show and were well on top in most positions on the field. Outhalf Donal Cashman was key to the win as he kicked 4 penalties while his clever play and ball distribution throughout kept Wexford on the back foot in wind-swept Tullow. Newbridge backrow and centres tackled everything that was thrown at them. They led from the beginning and it was only for a penalty try to Wexford 4 minutes from the end that kept Wexford in the game. Newbridge won by scoring a try and 4 penalties to Wexford’s converted penalty try and 2 penalties.

Winning the toss Wexford played with the stiff downfield breeze. It was

Newbridge however whose pack got to grips with the possession and took

the game by the scruff of the neck. Great runs from second row Oisin Howell

and Rory McCann as well as good fielding in the lineout from Wesley Cuffe

and Ronan Mangan saw Newbridge dominate these exchanges.

Outhalf Donal Cashman was on hand after 4 minutes to kick the first penalty

from 25 metres in front of the posts. In the 24th minute a Newbridge maul

drove the opposition backwards for hooker Niall Duggan to get the

touchdown. Wexford kicked a penalty in the 31st minute from 33 metres.

Niall O’Connor was given a yellow card in the 35th minute as Wexford

added to their score in the 38th minute after good pressure on the

Newbridge line. Cashman got the score of the match in the 41st minute from 36 metres out and into the strong breeze when he kicked a penalty to leave the half time score at 11 points to 6 for Newbridge.

Playing with the wind Newbridge cleverly utilised the wind for their half backs of Mark Delaney at scrum half and Cashman to kick to the Wexford end of the pitch. Newbridge were rewarded in the 51st minute when Cashman converted an easy penalty from in front of the posts. He was on target again in the 57th minute from the 46 metre line with another penalty. Newbridge now were well in control at 17 points to 6, at this stage veteran prop Matt Duggan was introduced to the fray and this had an immediate effect as the Newbridge scrum, which had creaked a few times, now got well on top. In the 74th minute winger David Hogan was yellow carded for a high tackle. In the dying minutes a further high tackle saw the referee award a penalty try to Wexford which they converted. Best for Newbridge were Oisin Howell and Rory McCann in the second row while Donal Cashman at outhalf was the star of the match. Ronan Mangan and Niall O’Connor were dogged in the tackle throughout while Denis Clarke in the centre was solid.

Seniors News - Archives 2016 / 2017

Sunday 25th September, 2016 - 1st XV Lose Opening League Match

​​Railway Union 16 - Newbridge 7

On Sunday 25th September Newbridge 1st XV lost their opening game at Railway Union in this season's Leinster League Division 2A. Last season's divisional runners up prove too strong for the Kildare visitors winning by 16 points to 7, a late Railway Union penalty denying a gallant Newbridge a losing bonus point. Better news for the 2nd XV who earned a well deserved 13 - 13 draw with Railway Union.

Sunday 8th January, 2017 - Leinster League – Division 2A

Newbridge 31 Roscrea 20

Played in Rosetown on Sunday 8th January, 2017 this was a game dominated for long periods by Newbridge and in the end their great endeavour and commitment left them well deserving of the points with the bonus. Newbridge scored four tries and a penalty to Roscrea’s two tries and a penalty. Donal Cashman was in outstanding form scoring all his kicks at goal and a try with a total of 16 points for the winners.

From the off it was mainly pressure from Roscrea, who are bottom of the Leinster League Division 2A, which yielded the early scores. A penalty in the 6th minute from the 10 metre line put Roscrea ahead. Conor Dolan at fullback for Newbridge missed an easy penalty kick in the 8th minute. Following a good break from the Roscrea outhalf and the ensuing ruck Roscrea scored a try under the posts to leave it at 10 points to nil after 24 minutes. Cashman playing on the wing took over the kicking and slotted a penalty in the 27th minute. Newbridge finally got on the attack and fullback Dolan was on hand after a series of mauls to get the touchdown in the corner. Cashman converted. Newbridge exerted more pressure now and second row Rory McCann got over in the 38th minute after a few dominant scrums. Cashman converted. Roscrea closed the half with a penalty in the 41st minute to leave it at 17 points to 13 at the break.

Roscrea started the second half with a swift break out from their 22 metre line only to knock on in the last few metres. However, it was Newbridge who continued with their domination. A number of changes saw Ciaran O’Rourke come on for Pat Commane, Mark Doyle for Niall O’Connor and Liam McGovern for Paddy Corbett. These were significant changes as it added further bite to the Newbridge attack. A yellow card in the 55th minute for a Roscrea wing forward saw hooker Niall Duggan get over for the third try which Cashman converted. In the 63rd minute, after a series of good drives from the Newbridge pack, Cashman added the fourth and bonus point try which he converted. In the 79th minute, after a series of scrums near the Newbridge line, Roscrea got over for a consolation score.

Best for Newbridge were Niall Duggan at, Ronan Mangan and Keith Moran in both the lineout and loose play while Mark Doyle took the game to Roscrea at every opportunity. Billy Delaney in the backs together with Liam McGovern on the wing tackled very well.

Next up for Newbridge in the Leinster League are Division 2A leaders, Cill Dara. The match is scheduled to be played in Rosetown on Saturday 14th January with kick off at 7.00pm.